Joe Danger: Special Edition

Joe Danger combines the physics play of Trials with the cartoon presentation and level editor of Excitebike to create the most fun motorcycle game I've ever played. It's great, great fun and a must-download for any Xbox 360 owner that doesn't need to shoot stuff 24 hours a day.

Motorcycle stuntman Joe's time in the spotlight ended long ago after a debilitating injury. He aims to get back into the game but might be a little rusty, so you'll have to help him remember how to pull off all those amazing stunts. They're actually not that difficult to perform, thanks to the simple, responsive controls. You know how some games just feel good to play? That's Joe Danger.

Each stage contains several objectives that will grant you a star when completed, and you spend those stars to unlock additional levels. I really like the amount of freedom Joe Danger provides. A stage may have eight objectives and you can chase after them in any order you like. Maybe you try to collect all of the letters spelling "Danger" or maybe you gun it to cross the finish line under the time limit – it's up to you. If you ever get stuck on a challenge, you can go to another level and try something else for a while.

These are more than just race tracks. Levels branch out like platforming environments with hidden areas and items to find. You explore this game.

I liked Trials HD a lot, but those later levels frustrated me, to say the least. Joe Danger is a much breezier, lighthearted affair. It can provide a challenge for those looking for one (certain objectives are much more difficult to complete than others), but it never discouraged me from getting back on my bike and trying again.

Local splitscreen races pit friends against each other head-to-head, and Joe Danger also includes a "sandbox" where you can make your own levels. The editor is interactive, so you ride through it on your motorcycle and drop objects right in front of Joe at any time. The developers cleverly worked a tutorial for this mode into the regular game, where Joe has to enter the editor to remove obstacles from his path and create ramps to proceed. Building levels proves almost as much fun as playing them. Once you've got a great track you can upload it to share with your friends.

What's so special about the Special Edition?
Joe Danger on Xbox Live Arcade includes Lab Mode, which basically amounts to a new game with its own levels and visual style. In the lab you find even zanier stunts and challenges than in the original Career Mode.


Closing Comments
How fitting that the character Joe Danger is an aging relic being dusted off and put back in the saddle. The game mirrors its hero: classic and old fashioned, but still boasting the skills to amaze us. Joe Danger constantly surprises and delights. The clever level design encourages return visits to look for all the hidden goodies, much like a Mario platformer does. It's a joy ride.

by Daemon Hatfield

Posted in: Action